I want to…
Stargaze
Palomar Observatory Campground
Set two miles from the namesake observatory, this site in the Palomar Mountains allows both tent and RV camping at an elevation of 4,800 feet. At the observatory, hop on a one-hour guided tour of the Hale Telescope dome, or on various summer weekends you can partake in their Explore the Stars series, when amateur astronomers from across the county bust out their telescopes to study the night sky. There are also 11 miles of trails in Palomar Mountain Park well suited for hiking and biking.
$30 per night
Choose Your Own Camping Adventure
Entertain the Kids
Roar & Snore at the Zoo Safari Park
Spend the night at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in a 9′ x 14′ or 12′ x 16′ tent with various amenities, including beds, area rugs, and electrical outlets. The Vista tent, which can accommodate up to six campers, looks out over the park’s African Plains, home to grazing giraffes, rhinos, and antelopes. Wild!
From $140 per night
Choose Your Own Camping Adventure
Go Fishing
Santee Lakes
This site has 300 full-hookup campsites, all with free WiFi—some even have cable TV. Campers get exclusive fishing access in two lakes that are closed off to day-use guests. Besides showers and laundry facilities, this campground also has seven playgrounds, two pools, and a clubhouse you can rent for events.
From $45 per night
Choose Your Own Camping Adventure
